15 signs your job interview is going horribly

Most people think it's difficult — or even impossible — to
determine how well they're performing during a job interview. But
if you look closely, the hiring manager's body language and
subtle cues will probably tell you exactly how they feel
about you as a candidate.

For example, you can take note of what appeals most to the hiring
manager about your background and what triggers a yawn, such as
long-winded answers — and take a different direction. "Other
times the fit just isn't there, or you had an off day. In the
worst-case scenario, by looking for subtle cues, you'll be better
prepared at the next job interview," she says.

If you detect any signs that the interview is going horribly,
it's important to maintain your confidence and a positive
attitude, no matter how discouraged you may be.

"The hiring manager may just be distracted for other reasons or
could be having a bad day," Taylor says. "So don't give up and
shut down."

Here are 15 telltale signs the interview may not end with a job
offer:

1. The hiring manager doesn't maintain eye
contact.

If you feel like saying, "Hey … I'm over here!" as your
interviewer seems to be looking everywhere but at you, that's not
always a great sign. "Gauge what is going on and whether and how
you can improve the situation," Taylor says. "Maybe you need to
take up the energy level a notch, or perhaps you should find a
way to connect with the interviewer on a more personal level."

2. They display negative body language.

If the interviewer is crossing their arms, leaning away from you,
or looking at the door, it could mean they aren't
impressed or interested.

"This is a good time for you to lean forward with enthusiasm as
you speak; it's likely to get attention and exude confidence,"
says Taylor.

3. They seem distracted.

If the hiring manager is texting or checking email, surfing the
web on his or her computer, or walking around the room as you
speak, this is never a good thing.

"Try to make your presentation and dialog more engaging," says
Taylor. Then ask yourself, "Would I really want to work for
someone who is this distracted?"

4. They cut the interview short.

If the interview comes to an abrupt end, just minutes after
entering the room, you probably aren't going to get the job. Of
course there may be a special circumstance, like an emergency —
but if the hiring manager wraps things up quickly and doesn't
explain or apologize, that's not a great sign.

"You can't ask for more time, but you should
thank the interviewer for his time and remain poised," says
Taylor.

5. They don't smile, ever.

"Maybe this is just their personality — but if you noticed the
hiring manager laughing and smiling prior to entering the
interview room, and then they suddenly look like their cat just
died, it could mean they're simply not excited by you as a
candidate," Taylor explains.

"If you feel daring, try a few lighthearted comments. And if that
doesn't work, consider whether this is just the tip of a very
chilly iceberg. You might want to run for the hills while you
can, anyway," she says.

6. They go on the offensive.

When you feel like you're playing a battle of the wits, as the
hiring manager tries repeatedly to put you in the hot seat, this
isn't great. "Don't play the game and challenge back. Remain calm
and determine if this is an aberration in the discussion — or the
sign of a merciless tyrant," says Taylor.

7. They pause often as they try to think of the next
question.

"Sometimes in a bad interview, it seems like it takes five
minutes for the hiring manager to come up with the next
question," she says. "This happens because hiring managers don't
always know how to handle their lack of interest." You don't have
to be reactive, however. This is your opportunity to
take the floor and ask questions.

If you feel like you're speaking to a wall, try a different tack,
such as asking for their opinion on the topic: "How do you
structure your team for those kinds of projects?" Once
you get the interviewer talking, they're more likely to perk up,
Taylor says.

9. The interviewer mentions there are other qualified
candidates in the running.

"This is a warning of sorts so you're not too let down later,"
she explains. Remain undeterred; as long as you're in the
interview, you still have a shot.

10. It seems as if they're reading your resume for the
first time.

It's possible that a hectic day is at fault and your interviewer
wants to be thoughtful about his questions, but if they seem
somewhat clueless about your background, or detached, you can
assume the interest level is dwindling.

This one may seem obvious — but it's worth mentioning, says
Taylor. "When this happens, ask about what would define success
for them in the job and at the company."

12. The conversation doesn't flow, and there are lots of
pauses or interruptions as you try to respond.

"Chemistry is measurable … by your gut," says Taylor. "You know
when the conversation flows and you have a feeling of camaraderie
and when you don't. Don't discount your own emotional
intelligence or how you physically feel during the
interview."

13. They don't mention 'next steps' or ask about your
availability.

"If you're not introduced to other managers or
the interviewer fails to show interest in moving forward, you can
be proactive," she says. For instance, if you feel like you still
have a shot at the job, you can always say: "I'm very interested
in the position; what would be the next step?" It's at least
another data point on where you stand.

14. You get the limp handshake.

If on your way in the interviewer had a nice, firm handshake, and
then on your way out you get a "cold fish handshake," which seems
obligatory at best, you probably won't be getting an offer.

But, still be firm with yours and smile, regardless, Taylor
suggests.

15. You're asked to follow up with an assistant.

"This may be a sign that the hiring manager doesn't want to spend
further time evaluating you for the position, unless the follow
up is about a second interview," she says.

"By taking careful note of job interviewer indicators, you can
shift your approach and take action in the moment, when it counts
the most," Taylor adds. "Also remember that just because you
didn't feel you performed well doesn't mean you lost out. The job
interview is also your opportunity to vet the prospective boss
and company, so remain objective."